Three-time world champion Mark Williams required oxygen support during a snooker match in Tibet after struggling with the high altitude, sparking initial concern among fans.
The Welsh snooker star shared a photo of himself connected to an oxygen tank and wearing nasal tubes whilst competing in Lhasa.
Williams posted the image on social media on Sunday, prompting worried responses from supporters who questioned his health condition.
In his social media post, Williams noted that “oxygen [was] needed at the interval” during the match.
Mark Williams needed oxygen due to the altitude
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The 49-year-old also revealed he felt like he was “going to fall over on the first frame” of the game.
The match was part of the 2025 Tianren Cup Lhasa Winter Plateau Snooker Challenge exhibition event, which Williams is attending following his recent appearance at the CBSA Superstar Invitational event in China last week.
Williams quickly reassured concerned fans that the oxygen was necessary due to Lhasa’s extreme elevation of 15,000 feet above sea level.
“I’m fine, I’m not sick atm. It’s ’cause I’m in Tibet, 15,000 [feet] up in the sky,” the Welshman explained to his followers.
The high-altitude conditions at the Tianren Cup venue made oxygen support essential for competitors, with Williams warning that without it, “it’s goodnight Irene.”
When asked by a fan about attempting “the first ever 147 at the summit of Everest,” Williams responded with humour, saying: “Staying on your feet is good in itself.”
Mark Williams dismissed concerns over his health
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The exhibition event has drawn several other prominent snooker players to Tibet.
Among the competitors are Ding Junhui, Judd Trump, and Xiao Guodong.
Trump has been documenting the unique venue, sharing photographs on his Instagram account.
Williams and co will return to the Alexandra Palace next week for the 2025 Masters.
Ronnie O’Sullivan is the defending champion, but the 49-year-old has struggled for form this season.
He’s been drawn to face John Higgins in a blockbuster first-round tie with the final taking place on January 19.
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The Masters takes place next week
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Trump looks in great form ahead of the Masters after making a 147 break against Ding Junhui this past week.
The world No 1 produced the maximum in the fifth frame against Ding and will be bidding for his third Masters title next week.